For her latest EP, Sleepwalking, Jessie Altman has teamed up with Grammy winners Jason Lehning and Craig Alvin to create her most polished release yet.
By Graeme Smith
Altman is one of a strew of pop singer-songwriters grappling for the world’s attention. It’s no easy feat to get it, but her strong songwriting and relatable emotion landed her on our radar.
As the title suggests, her new EP Sleepwalking grapples with the concepts of reality and illusion, telling an unfolding narrative of going through life on autopilot. The story is introduced by its dreamy and wistful title track. It’s our first taste of Lehning’s understatedly slick production and Alvin’s deft mixing which brings Altman’s arresting voice to the fore.
Mirror Mirror follows, leading us into a moment of melancholy and self-reflection. There’s a captivating vulnerability to its stripped-back verses which is beautifully contrasted by the richness of the chorus. The lyrics speak of frustration with the catharsis coming during a climbing climax.
Trick Of The Light confronts the allure of illusion and its in that moment that Altman’s vocals become their most powerful and passionate. It’s a power ballad which has a touch of the classic about it while sitting within the modern feel of the whole EP. It’s a highlight.
Hypnotic ends things triumphantly, hitting some pop highs in the chorus while furnishing its story with plenty of imagery. Warmth is infused in every note and Altman’s voice here forces a smile. It’s a strong finish to a tidy four track collection.
Jessie Altman is already getting a lot of traction in the wider world of music. SPIN named her one of the “Next Big Names in Music” in 2025. She’s amassed over one million streams and a healthy following on socials. Features include Forbes, People, and Entertainment Tonight.
This EP feels like a statement that all that attention is well-deserved. She’s worked with her team to create something truly magical. It’s succinct and with a strong point of view, all while giving us some perfectly approachable pop with heart.
I can’t wait to see to where this EP launches her career. I think she could be headed for the heights.
If you want to keep up to date with all Jessie Altman is doing, you can check out her website, or follow her on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, Spotify, YouTube, and more.
Sleepwalking is out now, and you can listen to it below.
